52 Weeks to Health: Week 35, Suicide Prevention

According to the American Association of Suicidology website, how do you remember the Warning Signs of Suicide? Here’s an easy way to remember: IS PATH WARM?

I Ideation, S Substance Abuse

P Purposelessness, A Anxiety, T Trapped, H Hopelessness

W Withdrawal, A Anger, R Recklessness, M Mood Changes

A person in acute risk for suicidal behavior most often will show warning signs of acute risk such as: threatening to hurt or kill him or herself, or talking of wanting to hurt or kill him/herself; and or, looking for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means; and/or, talking or writing about death, dying or suicide. These might be remembered as expressed or communicated ideation.

Other warning signs can include: increased substance (alcohol or drug) use; no reason for living; no sense of purpose in life; anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all of the time; feeling trapped – like there’s no way out; hopelessness; withdrawal from friends, family and society; rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge; acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking; or, dramatic mood changes.

If observed, seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional or calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for a referral.